- HD Radio- Blu-ray Player for RES- NAV system that allows you to enter/change destinations while in Drive, if a passenger is in the front seat- No pink lenses on reverse lights- Larger 3rd row seats with easier access- 2014 RL style headlights

As anticipated, and announced today by Honda/Acura, the production version of the all-new 3rd Gen 2014 MDX will be revealed at the NY Auto Show in just 9 days (Wednesday 3/27). For additional comments from Honda/Acura click on the press release of the following link:link title

Refer to previous posts showing pics of some of these 2014 MDX Ext/Int colors (esp. silver, cherry, and graphite), and to following link for additional review and extensive graphite pic examples (link title ); also, refer to the Acura website to see Fathom Blue Pearl on the ILX ( link title ), and Silver Moon and White Diamond Pearl on the 2013 RDX ( link title).

Not all 2014 MDX options (FWD) and colors (FMM) will be available for first 3-6 mos of build.

I found the following four vidoes about the 2014 MDX helpful, and if you haven't seen them yet you may find them helpful if you are considering purchasing a 2013 vs 2014 MDX, or one of the MDX's competitors: Infiniti JX/QX60/QX60h, Lexus RX 350/450h, Volvo XC90, BMW X5, Buick Enclave, Audi Q7. Videos 1-3 describe the differences between the 2013 vs the 2014 MDX and 2014 MDX features, and the design/engineering goals by the 2014 MDX program manager/chief engineer. These are very interesting and informative, but you may need to turn up the audio on your computer/tablet, esp. for vid #2 and vid #3. Check them out: vid #1 ( ); vid #2 ( ); vid #3 ( ).

Video #4 is excellent and unbiased, esp. in comparing the 2014 MDX with the competition from Infiniti, Lexus, Volvo, BMW, Buick and Audi. It's also great at giving a tutorial on using the initially complex 2014 MDX Nav/Infotainment system of dual monitors on the center stack. Vid #4 ( ).

While many attractive options will be offered on the 2014 MDX, reportedly a heated streering wheel option will be available on all trims as a dealer only installed option. Some may find this a nice addition, esp. on cold winter days.

There is a hefty/pricey bump in MSRP when going from Tech Pkg (TP) to Advance Pkg (AP) of $8K, and while it is true there are several features that the AP offers over the TP, most buyers will go for the TP. Two features that I like on the AP (but don't want to spend $8K to get them) are the Rear Back-up Sensors, and the Remote Engine Start System; these are available as accessories on lower trim levels for $526 and $399 respectively (excluding installation fee).

Another option I'm considering is the heated steering wheel accessory, although it seems somewhat pricey ($500, avail. on all trims, excluding installation).

Another safety/security feature that is currently available on many MDX competitors (Infinity JX/QX60, BMW X3/X5, Audi Q5/Q7, and M-B ML/GL) and reportedly will be available on the 2014 MDX, but (at least initially) only those MDX's sold in Canada (check third from last paragraph of this Canadian review: link title ) is the Surround View Camera System (SVCS). SVCS gives a bird's-eye top down view of the vehicle and it's immediate surrounding and can be very helpful in close quarters parking. Take a look at this BMW Top View video on You Tube: link title . This feature could also be a great security tool when linked to your iPhone in checking the area around your MDX at night for any bad guys nearby before or as you approach your MDX. Why is SVCS only available in Canada at this time? Test marketing? This safety/security feature should be offered as an accessory option on all trims!

Check this link (link title ) for additional commentary/perspective on the new tech features the 2014 MDX brings to the table, and whether these MDX changes motivate you to get the new MDX vs the 2013 MDX or an MDX competitor.

I went to an Acura Dealer in South Florida today. They had 8 different varieties of 2014 MDX's. I wanted to see the new green color as well as the Eucholyptus Interior which they did not have. I told the sales hole what I wanted. I was told they did not have the money factors or residuals and a Manager would call me back. Low and behold I received a call 3 hours later.

I was quoted $519.00 per month for a 10K, 36 month Lease. They wanted $2,700 + first month and inception fees. The vehicle was a 2WD Tech and the sticker was $48,000. I laughed at him and asked for the details on residuals and money factors. I was told they could not provide mw with that.

If you want to get some MDX features (SVCS) you will need to drive north to Canada and pay a hefty price differential ( link title ) and buy the Elite Package, or wait 1-2 years when I predict SVCS will be available at US Acura dealers.

"The 2014 Acura MDX will arrive in showrooms on Thursday, a few weeks earlier than originally expected.

American Honda did not explain the reason for the early launch of the 2014 MDX, but the automaker is clearly ready to see its redesigned crossover do battle with such competitors as the 2013 Buick Enclave and 2013 BMW X5."

Received email from Acura yesterday which stated that they are available so stopped by local dealer tonight. They received 6 and sold 3 already. They have 1 FWD. Does anyone know what this forest mist green resembles? Will go by dealer Monday to drive one. I am still driving my '07 MDX which replaced the '04 which replaced the '01 that my son-in-law is still driving.